6 Design Tips from a Professional Eco-Artist
We've long been big fans of Blackwater Ecosystem's work, so we're excited to share some of their top design tips with you.
For those unfamiliar, the man behind the name is an eco-artist based in Singapore specializing in naturalistic ecosystems, ranging from vivariums to paludariums and aquariums.
He runs Blackwater Ecosystem as a social enterprise, using a portion of his earnings from builds to provide interim support for families in need. Additionally, he regularly hosts free terrarium workshops and setups for underprivileged youths and children to keep them meaningfully engaged.
Now, onto his top 6 tips…
1. Proportionality
Pay close attention to the rules of proportionality. While it may be a matter of personal taste, consider choosing appropriately sized plants for the hardscape and tank.
Be mindful of the size of both the plants and hardscape materials and how they contribute to the overall sense of scale.
Think about the natural scene you're trying to recreate. For instance, are you aiming for an aerial view of a waterfall or a close-up diorama? If it's the former, adding a Pothos plant wouldn't make sense.
2. Choose your scenery
Think of the natural scene you want to showcase and try to be specific. It could be a South American riverbank or even a cloud forest in Borneo.
Google some pictures for inspiration and create a mood board. Study these habitats well and take note of the flora and fauna found in these environments, as well as their distinctive features.
Detail is everything. If a South American riverbank is what you're after, then take note of every detail that makes up the scene: different hardscape elements, plants, textures, shadows and lighting, as well as their position in relation to one another.
3. What's the story?
Consider yourself as a storyteller who is not just trying to connect visually with the audience but emotionally as well.
In my opinion, there are three design elements that, when applied, would immediately elevate your scape to the next level:
Proportionality
Attention to detail
Evoking an emotional response
One simple trick to achieve an emotional response is by using light and shadow, so be deliberate about where you place your lights. Choose the right plants based on their lighting requirements.
4. Think easy-maintenance
Carefully plan the placement of every piece of hardware, wire, and hose for easy access during maintenance and replacement down the road, especially if you're thinking of using expanding foam as a background.
Speaking purely from experience, there's no way I'm going to tear down the entire scape just to replace a faulty pump!
5. Take cues from Mother Nature
During your next visit to the park, take the time to observe Mother Nature closely, as doing so will provide you with invaluable insights and inspiration.
This practice will enable you to start learning and gaining a deeper understanding of the natural world.
6. Scape like an artist, think like a biologist
Remember that you're not just creating a visually appealing setup; you're building a living, breathing ecosystem.
Take care to consider the purpose of each item you introduce, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the overall ecosystem, beyond just aesthetics!
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A big thanks to Blackwater Ecosystem for allowing us to share some of his design tips.
While he modestly claims that he is “by no means an expert” (a sentiment we would disagree with 😉), he is eager to share his experience with everyone and to foster growth in this hobby together.
Make sure to head over to his Instagram and give him a follow! If you have any questions, feel free to send him a message.
